Bihar MLA Bribery Case: JDU MLA Accuses Colleague of Offering Bribe for Switching Sides

A JDU MLA in Bihar has filed an FIR against a party colleague, accusing him of offering a bribe of Rs 10 crore and a ministerial position to switch sides and join the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan.

In a shocking turn of events, an MLA from Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's Janata Dal (United) party, Sudhanshu Shekhar, has filed a First Information Report (FIR) against a fellow party member, Sanjeev Kumar. The allegation stems from an alleged offer of a bribe worth Rs 10 crore and a ministerial position in the RJD-led Mahagathbandhan in exchange for switching sides ahead of a crucial trust vote.

FIR Lodged at Kotwali Police Station

The case was registered at Kotwali police station in Patna by Shekhar, who represents the Harlakhi seat in Madhubani district, according to Krishna Murari Prasad, Patna Deputy Superintendent of Police (Law and Order). Shekhar has named Sanjeev Kumar, also a JDU MLA, as the accused in the FIR. The complaint was initially registered on February 11, and an investigation has been initiated under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Allegations of Bribery and Kidnapping

In his complaint, Shekhar asserts that Sanjeev Kumar approached him with the illicit offer, promising a substantial sum of money or a cabinet position in the new government if he aided the opposition in overthrowing the BJP-led coalition. Additionally, Shekhar accuses another JDU MLA of attempting to abduct two other party legislators to prevent their participation in the trust vote.

Shekhar's Statement to Reporters

Speaking to reporters outside the Bihar Assembly premises, Shekhar confirmed the bribery offer, stating, "Yes, I received an offer of 'paanch' (Rs 5 crore) now and a similar amount later, along with a ministerial berth. I am an honest person and I trust and believe that Nitish Kumar is our leader. I was not the only party MLA approached; similar offers were made to several others as well." Shekhar also raised suspicions about the role of Sanjeev Kumar in the entire episode, alleging that he had been enticing party MLAs to vote in favor of the RJD.

Sanjeev Kumar's Response

In response to Shekhar's allegations, Sanjeev Kumar maintained his innocence and reaffirmed his loyalty to Nitish Kumar. He asserted that Shekhar was being manipulated by certain party leaders against him. Kumar further accused two specific party leaders of orchestrating a smear campaign against him and expressed his disappointment in Shekhar's actions.

The allegations of bribery and attempted kidnapping have sent shockwaves through Bihar's political landscape. As investigations unfold, the outcome of this case could have significant implications for the stability of the newly formed NDA government led by Nitish Kumar.